Should Minors Be Allowed to Marry in California?

Under 18 and want to get hitched? In California, you need signed permission from a single parent or legal guardian, an interview and approval from the court.

Soon, you might need to wait until 18 no matter who signs off, making California the only state in the nation with an absolute ban on under-18 marriage.

Sen. Jerry Hill, D-San Mateo, said he is introducing the bill Friday in hopes of protecting all minors, and protecting women’s rights.

“While we respect all cultures and faiths, we cannot support practices that rob youth of their childhood,” Hill said. “It affects young children, yes, but I wouldn’t consider teenagers to be prepared for marriage when they’re 15 to 17 either.”

“While we respect all cultures and faiths, we cannot support practices that rob youth of their childhood,” Hill said. “It affects young children, yes, but I wouldn’t consider teenagers to be prepared for marriage when they’re 15 to 17 either.”